Paul "Always Selling, Never Telling" Babineau, 66, of Moncton, rode off on his celestial Kawasaki on March 13, 2024, leaving a trail of laughter and polished chrome in his wake. Born on December 14, 1957, he entered the world with a wink and a smile, and it's rumoured his first words were a sales pitch followed by a classic dad joke.
As a master salesman for General Mills and the entrepreneurial spirit behind his Coffee News franchise, Paul was the guy who could sell ice to Eskimos and probably did. His colleagues often said he could charm the birds from the trees, which explained his unyielding Angry Birds high scores.
When not conquering the sales world or flinging virtual birds, Paul was the 'wheel deal' on his Kawasaki KZ100 Ltd, shining it until you needed sunglasses just to look at it. His idea of a perfect day was a cold beer on the patio, the sun setting, and the soft hum of a well-tuned engine in the background.
Paul's road trips were legendary, especially those camping expeditions with his co-pilot and wife, Anne, navigators-in-chief daughters, Stephanie and Chantal, and their beloved furry mascot. These adventures were always full of unexpected detours and laughter.
Leaving behind his better half, Anne (Vautour); his pride and joy: Stephanie and Chantal; and his siblings: Jocelyne Wilt (Walter), Roger Babineau (Lynn), and Louise Surette (Raymond). Paul has taken the express lane to the great beyond. His parents, Gerald and Colombe (Richard) have the welcome sign out.
Remembered for his mule-like stubbornness (a compliment in the Babineau book), legendary work ethic, and a sense of humour that could light up even the dullest sales conference, Paul's absence leaves a hole in our hearts and our funny bones.
A celebration of Paul's life will be held when the sun is high, and the beers are chilled—mid to late summer 2024. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the CHU Dumont Foundation (oncology), or better yet, polish your bike, play a game of Angry Birds, and toast to a man who lived life full throttle.
Ride on, Paul, and keep the rubber side down up there.
Funeral arrangements are in the professional care of Frenette Funeral and Cremation Centre, Moncton (506-858-1900).
Words of comfort and donations may be made at www.frenettefuneralhome.com